A Guide to Luxury Train Travel: The Most Opulent Journeys Around the Globe

Luxury train travel is a unique and unforgettable experience that offers a chance to explore the world's most breathtaking landscapes in style and comfort. From the snow-capped peaks of the Canadian Rockies to the vibrant cities of India, luxury trains take travelers on a journey of a lifetime. In this post, we'll explore some of the most opulent journeys around the globe, highlighting the luxurious amenities, stunning scenery, and exceptional service that make luxury train travel a truly unforgettable experience.

The Thrill of Traveling by Train

The thrill of traveling by train is unmatched, and when done in luxury, it becomes an unforgettable experience. Railbookers offers a curated selection of independent luxury train vacations across the globe, combining rail and hotel accommodations, sightseeing, private transfers, and more. Their Rail Experts have handpicked seven of the world's most luxurious train journeys, which can be seamlessly integrated into your next global adventure.

Imagine traversing the picturesque landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, indulging in world-class cuisine, and retreating to the comfort of your private cabin with an ensuite shower and toilet. Enhance your next trip to the United Kingdom with Railbookers by taking a luxurious trip on the Belmond Royal Scotsman. Alternatively, explore the mystical lands of Morocco, where the Sahara Desert meets the Atlas Mountains, onboard the luxurious Desert Express. You'll journey through Marrakech and Fez in air-conditioned comfort and luxurious style, with white-linen dining and included sightseeing experiences elevating your vacation to new heights.

The Hiram Bingham: A Luxury Train Journey to Machu and Picchu

One of the most iconic luxury trains is the Hiram Bingham, which takes passengers on a scenic journey to the ancient Inca citadel of Machu and Picchu. This train is named after the American explorer who discovered the site in 1911 and offers an unparalleled level of service and luxury.

As passengers board the train, they are greeted with a warm welcome of live music and traditional dancers, setting the tone for an unforgettable experience. The train's elegant carriages are decorated in the traditional Pullman style of the 1920s, with polished wood and brass accents, and large comfortable chairs that offer ample space to relax.

The journey begins with a delicious brunch service, featuring a three-course gastronomic experience that showcases the best of Peruvian cuisine. Passengers can enjoy dishes such as grilled Angus beef kebabs, native potatoes, and a scrumptious banana and passion fruit mousse, all while taking in the breathtaking views of the Andean landscape.

Luxury Train Journeys Around the Globe

From the medieval castles of Bulgaria to the lush landscapes of the Balkans, the Golden Eagle Danube Express offers unique off-train excursions led by a personal tour manager. When you board the train after a busy day of exploring, you'll return to luxurious cabins with private bathrooms and enjoy white-glove dining featuring the finest luxury cuisine of the region. Connecting Western and Eastern Europe all the way to Turkey, Railbookers makes it easy to enjoy the Golden Eagle Danube Express luxury train.

Experience the majesty of India's treasured historic sites and destinations in ultimate luxury onboard the Maharajas' Express – the overnight train fit for royalty. You'll savor traditional Indian cuisine while visiting the Taj Mahal, Agra Fort, Ranthambore National Park, and much more – providing the bucket-list India vacation you've always dreamed of. Railbookers makes it easy with one call to take care of your hotel, train, and more.

Alternatively, embark on a luxurious journey through the ancient lands of Egypt, where the Pyramids of Giza meet the Nile River, onboard the luxurious Egyptian Express. You'll explore Cairo and Luxor in air-conditioned comfort and luxurious style, with white-linen dining and included sightseeing experiences taking your vacation to the next level.

The Canadian: A Luxury Train Journey Through the Canadian Rockies

The Canadian is one of the most iconic luxury train journeys, spanning across the Great White North from Toronto to Vancouver. Operated by Via Rail, Canada's national passenger rail service, this four-day journey takes passengers through stunning waterfalls, charming small towns, and the majestic Rocky Mountains. For a truly unforgettable experience, travelers can disembark at Jasper, Alberta, or Kamloops, British Columbia, to explore the great outdoors through hiking, biking, or skiing. Taking the train in winter offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and endless fields of white powder.

The Blue Train: A Luxury Train Journey Through South Africa

The Blue Train is another iconic luxury train journey, running from Pretoria to Cape Town in South Africa. This 27-hour journey takes passengers through the stunning African savannah, with breathtaking views of the Drakensberg Mountains and the Cape Winelands. On board, passengers can enjoy fine dining, luxurious accommodations, and exceptional service. A highlight of the journey is the stop at the Kimberley Mine Museum, where passengers can learn about the history of diamond mining in South Africa.

The Palace on Wheels: A Luxury Train Journey Through India

The Palace on Wheels offers a luxurious journey through the vibrant cities of Rajasthan. This eight-day journey takes passengers through the stunning landscapes of the Aravalli Mountains, with stops at historic forts, palaces, and temples. On board, passengers can enjoy traditional Indian cuisine, luxurious accommodations, and exceptional service. A highlight of the journey is the stop at the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

The Ghan: A Luxury Train Journey Through Australia

The Ghan is another iconic luxury train journey, running from Adelaide to Darwin in Australia. This 54-hour journey takes passengers through the stunning landscapes of the MacDonnell Ranges, with breathtaking views of the Finke Gorge and the Katherine Gorge. On board, passengers can enjoy fine dining, luxurious accommodations, and exceptional service. A highlight of the journey is the stop at the Alice Springs Desert Park, where passengers can learn about the unique flora and fauna of the Australian outback.

The Belmond Hiram Bingham: A Luxury Train Journey to Mach and Picchu

The Belmond Hiram Bingham offers a luxurious journey through the stunning landscapes of the Andes. This four-day journey takes passengers through the breathtaking scenery of the Sacred Valley, with stops at historic Inca ruins and traditional Andean villages. On board, passengers can enjoy fine dining, luxurious accommodations, and exceptional service. A highlight of the journey is the stop at the Sun Gate, where passengers can watch the sunrise over the ancient Inca city of Mach and Picchu.

The Rocky Mountaineer: A Luxury Train Journey Through the Canadian Rockies

The Rocky Mountaineer offers a luxurious journey through the stunning landscapes of the Canadian Rockies. This two-day journey takes passengers through the breathtaking scenery of the Coast Mountains, with stops at historic mountain towns and glaciers. On board, passengers can enjoy fine dining, luxurious accommodations, and exceptional service. A highlight of the journey is the stop at the Athabasca Glacier, where passengers can take a guided tour of the glacier and learn about its unique geology.

The Bernina Express: A Luxury Train Journey Through the Swiss and Italian Alps

The Bernina Express offers a luxurious journey through the stunning landscapes of the Swiss and Italian Alps. This four-hour journey takes passengers through the breathtaking scenery of the Bernina Pass, with stops at historic mountain villages and glaciers. On board, passengers can enjoy fine dining, luxurious accommodations, and exceptional service. A highlight of the journey is the stop at the Diavolezza, where passengers can take a guided tour of the glacier and learn about its unique geology.

The Flåm Railway: A Luxury Train Journey Through the Norwegian Fjords

The Flåm Railway offers a luxurious journey through the stunning landscapes of the Norwegian fjords. This one-hour journey takes passengers through the breathtaking scenery of the Aurlandsfjord, with stops at historic mountain villages and waterfalls. On board, passengers can enjoy fine dining, luxurious accommodations, and exceptional service. A highlight of the journey is the stop at the Kjosfossen waterfall, where passengers can take a guided tour of the waterfall and learn about its unique geology.

The TranzAlpine: A Luxury Train Journey Through the Southern Alps

The TranzAlpine offers a luxurious journey through the stunning landscapes of the Southern Alps. This four-hour journey takes passengers through the breathtaking scenery of the Waimakariri River, with stops at historic mountain towns and glaciers. On board, passengers can enjoy fine dining, luxurious accommodations, and exceptional service. A highlight of the journey is the stop at the Arthur's Pass National Park, where passengers can take a guided tour of the park and learn about its unique flora and fauna.

In conclusion, luxury train travel offers a unique and unforgettable experience, allowing passengers to explore breathtaking landscapes and immerse themselves in local cultures while enjoying unparalleled comfort and service. From the snow-capped peaks of the Canadian Rockies to the vibrant cities of India, luxury trains take travelers on a journey of a lifetime. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, luxury train travel has something to offer. So why not climb aboard and experience the magic of luxury train travel for yourself?

At Qwillery, we're passionate about exploring the world's most breathtaking landscapes and immersing ourselves in local cultures. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or just starting to plan your next adventure, we hope this guide to luxury train travel has inspired you to take the journey of a lifetime.